2016 Official Figures Show Increase in Enrollment from Opening Day

Total enrollment of 33,266 is sixth highest enrollment in university history

October 6th, 2016

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Official enrollment figures for the 2016-2017 academic year at the University of Missouri showed an increase from opening day, including total enrollment, undergraduates, total minority students and retention rate. Overall, MU’s official fall enrollment is 33,266, up 489 students or 1.5 percent from opening day enrollment numbers.

MU’s retention rate, a measure of how many freshman students came back to campus as sophomores, climbed to 85.7 percent, the third highest in history. Additionally, the average ACT score, an indicator of the freshman class, remained at 26.0, tying a University record.

“We are very pleased with the retention rate of our returning freshmen, it shows that we remain a strong choice for students who want to be part of MU’s storied history and bright future,” said Pelema Morrice, vice provost for enrollment management.

The number of minority students also rose from opening day. African-American students rose 58 students or 2.6 percent to 2,302, and total minority students rose 1.8 percent or 92 students to 5,209.

“We’re excited to see that since opening day, almost 500 additional students have chosen Mizzou as their home,” said Hank Foley, interim chancellor. “Mizzou continues to be the premier public higher education institution in the state, and it is clear that students throughout the country believe this university can help them achieve their life goals.”